Japanese gamers (or English gamers able to translate in real-time) have been enjoying Final Fantasy XIII since December, while the rest of us patiently wait for March 9. We're one step closer, as Final Fantasy XIII director Motomu Toriyama released a statement on the game's website declaring that development has finished on the "overseas" version of Final Fantasy XIII.

"The overseas version was developed simultaneously with the Japanese one as we wanted to ensure it comes out as soon after the Japanese release date as possible," said Toriyama.

Toriyama noted how the team worked hard to match the voices to the lip-synching.

"Don't get distracted," he warned, concluding. "You will see the truth when you hold it in your hands. Please be patient a little longer for the 'day of the battle against the fate!'"

I feel ready for a Japanese RPG. It's been a few years. The tradition begins anew.

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